Kernstof

Kernstof is a Dutch noun formed from kern ("core" or "nucleus") and stof ("substance" or "material"). The term has two primary senses. In everyday language, it refers to the essential material or core substance of something, for example the central facts or essential elements of a discussion: "de kernstof van het verhaal" or "de kernstof van een theorie." In technical or scientific contexts, kernstof can denote a nuclear substance or radioactive material, although in formal texts more precise terms such as kernmateriaal or radioactieve stof are common, and kernstof may be considered ambiguous.

Etymology and usage: The compound derives from kern and stof and has been used in Dutch since the 20th century. The figurative sense emphasizes essence or core content, while the literal sense relates to nuclear science where materials used in reactors or weapons are discussed under specific regulatory terms.

Safety and regulation: If used in the nuclear sense, handling and transport are subject to strict safety and nonproliferation rules under national regulations and international frameworks such as the IAEA. In the figurative sense, no special regulation applies.

See also: kernenergie; kernmateriaal; radioactieve stof; essentie; kernpunten.